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A brilliant idea can get stopped in its tracks if it resembles something that didn't work in the past, John Kotter writes. That can be especially frustrating if a higher-up doesn't see how conditions have changed in the interim. What can you do when someone says 'it's been done'? First and foremost, don't try to argue about past events. Instead, focus on the present and try to find ways to assuage any lingering doubts or objections.

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Brilliant insights are rarely commissioned, Isaac Asimov argued in this previously unpublished essay from 1959. He suggested having people engage in unpaid "cerebration sessions" that encourage broad thoughts and a lack of judgment. "First and foremost, there must be ease, relaxation, and a general sense of permissiveness. The world in general disapproves of creativity, and to be creative in public is particularly bad. Even to speculate in public is rather worrisome. The individuals must, therefore, have the feeling that the others won't object," Asimov wrote.

When looking for a mentor, don't limit your search to your workplace, Lisa Quast writes. Look to professional associations, community groups or even your family. "Once you find a person who agrees to be your mentor, first and foremost, make sure you share the same commitment to your expectations," she says.

CompTIA is looking to help drive job creation in the U.S. and boost the skills of tech professionals through a pilot training program featuring apprenticeships and guaranteed job offers. CompTIA President and CEO Todd Thibodeaux said the goal is to create a replicable model that can rolled out nationwide. "First and foremost we are trying to help people get careers. It's benefiting people first and foremost and the industry is kind of a secondary beneficiary," Thibodeaux said.

Professionals who help propel organizations forward with their innovative ideas often have common characteristics, writes Rich Crum, president of TwinSuns Solutions. These "agents of change" are capable of focusing their creative impulses, understand how to navigate through levels of bureaucracy and are charismatic enough to get higher-ups on board with their idea, Crum writes.

Young executives profiled in this story say they got ahead by providing innovative solutions for their companies. Pam Rogers Klyn, who impressed higher-ups at Whirlpool with her idea to factor cost-cutting ability into employees' performance reviews, recommends staying confident. "Look your senior leaders in the eye and say, 'Here's my plan, and here's why it will work,'" she says.